MCGM Genomics Laboratory Hub bid successful

The Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust has succeeded in its bid to manage a new North West Genomics Laboratory Hub as part of a national NHS genomic medicine service.

Launched at the start of the year, the tender process aimed to build on the 100,000 genomes project. Seven genomic laboratory hubs will form part of a new national genomic medicine service. The Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine will lead the hub serving patients in the north west of England. The hub will allow its members to combine specialist knowledge and expertise from across the region including The Christie NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Women’s NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool Clinical Laboratories, and Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The hub will provide a comprehensive set of core genomics testing plus specialist testing services in cardiology, haematology, hearing, immunology, metabolic disorders, neurology, and ophthalmology. The group will partner with the North East hub to provide inherited cancer testing.

The service will enhance genetic testing for cancer, and rare inherited diseases. This will improve both patient diagnosis and treatment decisions. It will also create opportunities to link with academic and industry partners on research and development programmes.